Planning board continues Granite Woods subdivision hearing after public concern over Hackett Hill access and TIF implications

The Hooksett Planning Board accepted jurisdiction on March 3 for Granite Woods LLC’s application to create a two‑lot subdivision and land condominium for the Lot 7 master site (approximately 60 acres) and a 10.29‑acre parcel shown as proposed Lot 72. The application described phasing for a large industrial building (a 100,000‑square‑foot first phase within an ultimately proposed 500,000‑square‑foot development), and said the subdivision and condo documents are intended to facilitate staged mortgage financing for phased construction.

Attorney John Cronin and project manager Rich Whitehouse (VHB) led the presentation and listed five waiver requests tied to driveway geometry, landscaping and deferred submittals. The board held a lengthy public hearing and public-comment period that drew multiple abutters and neighborhood residents who raised strong concerns about the proposed driveway access off Hackett Hill Road, potential wall heights, wetland impacts and the implications for the town’s TIF (tax increment financing) district.

Key technical points and board discussion

- Jurisdiction: The board voted to accept jurisdiction on the subdivision application (motion by Member Jim Sullivan; seconded; roll-call recorded). Several…